Health Blog

Spring Activity and Exercise

Spring Activity and Exercise

Warmer weather is right around the corner! Since the days are longer and weather is nicer, this is a great time to take advantage of all the outdoor activities and exercises. Did you know it is recommended that adults have at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity at least once a week and children are recommended to have at least an hour of physical activity a day? This is because exercising can help with many things, including regulating weight, reducing risks of heart disease and certain cancers, and strengthening bones and muscles. Along with these health benefits, being active and exercising during the spring in the Capital Region can also be fun! Just don’t forget to put your sunscreen on!

Why being active is good for your health

Everyone benefits from being active! Some ways in which regular exercise is healthy for you includes:

  • Reduces risk of chronic conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, many types of cancers, dementia, depression, and anxiety
  • Improves balance and coordination
  • Helps regulate weight
  • Strengthens bones and muscles
  • And can even help boost self-esteem!

Before changing up your exercise routine, make sure you speak with your doctor. They can help you create healthy exercise goals and point out where you need improvement.  If you are in need of a primary doctor, CCP’s Concierge Care Coordinator would be more than happy to direct you to the best physician for you. CCP has many wonderful doctors and convenient locations to choose from. Call today at (518) 782-3800. 

Spring start your health this season

As stated before, it is suggested you have at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week. This can also be switched to 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity or a combination of the two types of activities. Strength training of all the major muscle groups is also recommended at least twice a week. Some great ways to get in your weekly exercises in the spring are:

  • Bike riding – it’s a great time to start preparing for National Bike Month in May!
  • Gardening – Not only is having your own garden a fun springtime activity, it can also be a great way to encourage you to eat more fruits and vegetables.
  • Spring cleaning – It’s about that time again! With upbeat music, even cleaning can be fun!
  • Walking to nearby destinations – Not only will you save on gas, walking is excellent exercise! Plus, you’ll have the chance to see the trees and flowers begin to bloom.
  • Going for a jog – running can be great exercise and gets you outside in nature.

Tips to get (and stay) active

The CDC has some tips to keep in mind as you create a work-out regiment:

  • Speak with your doctor if you have a chronic condition (such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease).
  • Reach out to friends and family for support – have them join you in your springtime activities!
  • It’s okay to start out slow! Add time, frequency, or intensity every week.
  • Schedule physical activity around your energy level – pick days and times during the week when you’re most energetic.
  • Make your springtime activities and exercises part of your daily or weekly schedule.
  • Try to walk more, instead of driving. Park further away in parking lots to create a nice walk for yourself.
  • Keep in mind neighborhood improvements and support them. They help to make it easier to walk and bike around your area.

Keeping your kids active during school breaks

With spring comes spring break. You might be tired of hearing your kids complain about being bored. Try to encourage your children to spend more time being physically active, rather than sitting on the couch and watching television or playing video games. Just remember, most activities listed above can apply to your children! Engage them in the activities and exercises you do!

  • Teach your kid to bike – if they already are comfortable on a bike, have them go on bike rides with you.
  • Have them help you in the garden – this not only is a great activity, but it will also teach them the importance of food and eating healthy.
  • Go for a walk around the park – this can be a fun, family activity. Walking is great exercise and parks are a wonderful, free resource to the community.
  • Scavenger hunts – this does not have to be as time consuming as it sounds. It can be as simple as counting leaves and dogs in the park.
  • Encourage your children to partake in chores with you.
  • Have your child join a sports team.

Capital Region Spring Activities

For more information on events and great resources for spring activities, see Albany’s website here. 

Sources
https://go4life.nia.nih.gov/activities-for-all-seasons-fun-ideas-for-being-active-all-year/
https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/healthy-spring.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/physical-activity.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/basics/fitness-basics/hlv-20049447
https://www.cdc.gov/family/springbreak/index.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/family/gardening/index.htm
https://www.nchpad.org/1045/5390/Kids~Korner~~~Our~Top~Five~Ideas~to~Keep~the~Kids~Active~During~Spring~Break

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